Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) with Target Controlled Infusion (TCI) and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Published on: December 6, 2016
Sleep physiology and sleep-disordered breathing: the essentials
Robert Primhak1, Ruth Kingshott
1Sleep Unit, Sheffield Children's Hospital, Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TH, UK. r.a.primhak@sheffield.ac.uk
Insights
Pediatric sleep is vital but can risk breathing. This study reviews sleep changes, sleep deprivation effects, and sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBD) in children, guiding diagnosis and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric sleep medicine
- Respiratory physiology in children
Background:
- Sleep is crucial for child development but can be disrupted by breathing issues.
- Sleep deprivation and sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBD) have significant negative impacts on children's health.
- Certain risk factors necessitate careful evaluation before considering adenotonsillar surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline developmental changes in pediatric sleep patterns and physiology.
- To review the evidence on the adverse effects of sleep deprivation and SRBD.
- To discuss screening indications and diagnostic approaches for SRBD in children.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of developmental sleep changes and SRBD.
- Analysis of risk factors for adenotonsillar surgery.
- Discussion of diagnostic criteria and resource utilization for SRBD assessment.
Main Results:
- Identified key developmental shifts in sleep and associated breathing.
- Highlighted the detrimental consequences of sleep deprivation and SRBD.
- Outlined specific conditions warranting SRBD screening and appropriate diagnostic tools.
Conclusions:
- SRBD poses a significant risk to children's health, necessitating timely identification.
- Diagnostic strategies range from simple assessments to polysomnography, depending on individual cases.
- A managed clinical network is proposed for optimal organization and resource allocation in pediatric SRBD care.
Abstract:
Sleep is essential, but poses a risk to breathing in some children. We have outlined the developmental changes in sleep patterns and physiology, and the evidence of deleterious effects of sleep deprivation and of sleep-related breathing disorder (SRBD). Some factors increase the risk of adenotonsillar surgery and should be excluded before contemplating surgery in a secondary care setting. Screening for SRBD is indicated in some conditions, which are discussed. Although simple studies may suffice for many patients, there are a few who need more detailed assessment with polysomnography. A managed clinical network would be the most appropriate model to ensure appropriate organisation and utilisation of scarce resources in this area.
Related Concept Videos
Sleep Apnea
The condition is more prevalent among...
Sleep-Wake Cycles
NREM Sleep
NREM sleep comprises four progressive stages that seamlessly merge:
Respiratory Volumes and Capacities I
Understanding Sleep
The circadian rhythm, a nearly 24-hour cycle, is deeply influenced by environmental light cues. Light exposure directly affects the hypothalamus, which in turn regulates...
Physiological Control of Respiration
Breathing, a seemingly passive process, is regulated by the respiratory center in the brainstem. This center coordinates the involuntary control of respirations, which means it occurs without conscious effort, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted pattern.
Regulation of Ventilation
The body maintains ventilation by monitoring levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), oxygen (O2), and hydrogen ion concentration (pH) in the arterial blood. Among these factors, the level of CO2 plays a crucial...
Alterations in Respiration II
In Biot's breathing, the respiratory rate and depth are irregular, alternating between periods of deep gasping and apnea. Common causes include...

